As the world of cricket ICC Men’s T20 World Cup 2026 In India and Sri Lanka, the landscape of the shortest format looks remarkably different. The year 2025 clearly signaled the “end of the era” when many great players of the modern era decided to hang up their boots in the T20 International format, clearing the way for the next generation.
The departure of these legends has created a void in their respective national teams, but their retirement has cleared the stage for a generation of new, fearless cricketers who are set in pursuit of global glory.
Iconic stars retired before T20 World Cup 2026
1) Mitchell Starc: End of an express era
The biggest blow to Australia’s bowling attack came when michelle stark Has decided to retire from T20Is in September 2025. The left-arm fast bowler, known for his toes-crushing yorkers and early breakthroughs, decided to give priority to Test cricket and the 2027 ODI World Cup.
Starc leaves behind a legacy as one of the most feared white bowlers in history. His absence from the 2026 World Cup means Australia will enter the tournament without their main “X-factor” with the new ball for the first time in over a decade.
2) Nicholas Pooran: Shocking retirement of the West Indies star
In one of the most shocking announcements of the year, nicholas puran Has decided to retire from all international cricket in June 2025. At just 29, the West Indies record holder for T20I runs and appearances has decided to focus on the global franchise circuit.
For the Caribbean team, losing a middle-order batsman of Pooran’s stature just months before a major tournament is a huge setback. He was the bridge between the “old guard” Gayle and Pollard and the rising stars; Now, the Windies will have to find a new anchor for their explosive batting lineup.
3) Heinrich Klaasen: Retirement of South Africa’s finisher
South Africa’s middle-order superstars heinrich classen Also decided to end his international career in June 2025. Over the past few seasons, Klaasen has evolved towards becoming the most destructive batsman against spin in the world.
His retirement signals a significant change for the Proteas, who were heavily dependent on his ability to accelerate in the death overs. As South Africa prepares for the 2026 event, the pressure is now on young talents like Tristan Stubbs to fill the “finisher” void left by Klaasen.
T20I Performance Summary
| player | match | runs/wickets | BBI/Best Score |
|---|---|---|---|
| michelle stark | 65 | 79 wickets | 4/20 |
| nicholas puran | 106 | 2275 runs | 98 |
| heinrich classen | 58 | 1000 runs | 81 |
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